Rolling hills and death-defying slopes hinted with lush green grass and the multi-colored buildings. This sight cannot be captured in the United States, but only in the beautiful countryside of Italy, a place that I was fortunate enough to visit in an unexpected manner.
A few months previous, I was prepared to take a trip to Spain, but I received a heartbreaking memo; there wasn’t going to be a trip. However, I was offered an alternative; I could take a trip to Italy instead with another one of my teachers or get my money refunded. I decided on the foremost of the two.
Stepping off the plane after a nine hour flight and a day later, I was awestruck; I had never been to Europe before and it was so much different than my hometown of Jacksonville, Florida. It was a bit colder and no humidity. Florida is flatter than a pancake that was pressed out with a rolling pin, so seeing mountains was breathtaking and I was moved beyond words.
Our first stop was the quaint town of Assisi where we took the trek downhill towards St. Francis’s Basilica where the walls and ceilings were painted with the story of his life. The tour guide also led us downstairs in the bottom of the church where St. Francis’s body is entombed in a pillar of stone.
That night we stayed in a small hotel just outside of the town perched on the edge of the mountain. The dining room had a wall of windows so you could look down into the valley. The view was over exhilarating, but we were so exhausted from the long day and the lack of sleep from the plane ride we just turned in early after dinner.
The next two days we spent walking around the beautiful city of Florence. They consisted of finding a Burger King and having our first Italian cheeseburger, fries, and coke, walking the streets and shopping in the Piazza, lots of pizza, seeing David in addition to other statues and architecture, and eating a waffle topped with ice cream.
Then it was off to three days in Rome. We took a night tour around the city, and to see the city in the daylight is one thing, but to see it lit up in lights was absolutely dazzling. Our tour guide took us to the Trevi Fountain, one of the top most romantic destinations in the world, and we visited some Roman ruins, including the Coliseum. We were also taken to one of the many ways through the Catacombs underneath the city. However, my favorite part about being in Rome was visiting Vatican City, even though it’s not officially part of Rome. If anything it was a great religious experience for me.
After Rome, we headed to Pompeii to walk through the excavated ruins and then off the coast to the town of Sorrento. The next day we headed via boat to the beautiful little fishing island of Capri. We took a boat tour around the whole island and then walked around the upper part of it. Everything on the island was miniature in order to fit on the small land mass from the little trucks they drove around on to even the narrow streets.
Late that afternoon, we headed back to Rome to prepare for heading out the next day. Even though the trip was unexpected, it was by far the most memorable. If I could, I would do it all over again, and it has inspired me to venture out to more countries and learn different cultures.
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There’s a unique warmth about this place that isn’t just from the cocoa or winter drinks, but from the people, the laughter, and the little traditions scattered around every corner. Watching families gather, children’s faces light up at the sight of the reindeer, and the simple joy of wandering through beautifully decorated stalls reminded me how lovely the holiday season can be.
It’s not just about the decorations or the rides — it’s the feeling of togetherness, the calm, and the way time seems to slow down so you can really take in the small, meaningful moments. I left with a heart full of good memories and a deep appreciation for the charm and kindness of Danish traditions.
If you ever get the chance to visit, I promise it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
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I had the chance to experience Denmark during the Christmas season, and it’s something I’ll always hold close to my heart. Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen felt like stepping into a storybook. The way the entire park was dressed in soft, glowing lights, handmade decorations, and the comforting scent of mulled wine in the air made every moment feel special.
There’s a unique warmth about this place that isn’t just from the cocoa or winter drinks, but from the people, the laughter, and the little traditions scattered around every corner. Watching families gather, children’s faces light up at the sight of the reindeer, and the simple joy of wandering through beautifully decorated stalls reminded me how lovely the holiday season can be.
It’s not just about the decorations or the rides — it’s the feeling of togetherness, the calm, and the way time seems to slow down so you can really take in the small, meaningful moments. I left with a heart full of good memories and a deep appreciation for the charm and kindness of Danish traditions.
If you ever get the chance to visit, I promise it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
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This article is incredibly informative and well-structured. It offers clear, practical guidance on a topic many travelers often overlook—traveling with minors. The detailed breakdown of required documents and the emphasis on consent letters provide much-needed clarity for parents and guardians planning a trip. A must-read for anyone traveling with children!
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Thank you for such praise, I am glad I could present the material in a way that made you want to see and experience St. Augustine’s Black history for yourself.
Of course, this beach town has lots more to offer but if you are willing to walk the lanes and dig a little bit, the history of the first Blacks and how much they contributed to protecting the colony is fascinating.
Hope you get there and enjoy your trip.
Your trip sounds absolutely incredible! Lisbon is truly a magical city, and your experience during the EuroCup must have made it even more special. If anyone reading this is planning a trip to Lisbon, I highly recommend taking a free walking tour to explore the city’s rich history, charming streets, and hidden gems with a local guide. You can check out this great option: https://www.guruwalk.com/lisbon. It’s a fantastic way to get an insider’s perspective on the city!
It’s iin reality a great and helpful piece oof info.
I’m satisfied that you shared this helpful information with us.
Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing
Great content for cruise lovers !! One of the most advantage of cruising is you do not have to pick your luggages every day , and every day you discover a new country. Although one day is not enough to see everything it gives an idea about a country ! With my experience since 2007, 99,9% of my guest said that Kusadasi/Turkey is their favorite port among all the other ports. Because we have a lot of options for every traveler. The most popular places , if your ship is docking at Kusadasi, is Ephesus ancient city which is only 25 min. drive away. Ephesus was the 4th largest ancient city of the world in 2 c AD.Most of the ruins are reconstructed and gives an idea about Roman’ glorious times. If you ever visit Ephesus, I suggest you to see Terrace Houses , where the rich were living and houses are decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes from 3rd c AD.If you want to add a spiritual break , thats House of Virgin Mary is there. It is believed that she was taken by St. John the apostle to there.Another place you must see Ephesus Museum.. Forget all that boring museums you have seen . While guiding , I explain the most interesting artifacts , including original staue of Artemis. BTW. did you know that one of seven wonders of ancient world was located there? Well… not so much left , but it is still worth to be seen. If you ever visit Kusadasi,and want to have private tour, please feel free to contact with me ! I am very happy to answer your questions and customize your trip to Ephesus. Please visit my website,not only for Ephesus trip but also to get an idea about my beloved country Turkey/Turkiye. You can see different types of tours that I organize. Archaeological , culinary or lets customize your tour to Turkey together!! luxurytoursofturkey.com/